Things to do
The best Labor Day weekend events in Chicago
Find events to keep you busy across all three days of the long weekend.
We've still got a few weeks of summer in Chicago after Labor Day, but this three-day weekend is often regarded as the final send-off to the season—so you might as well make it great! Want to spend your weekend outside? Plan a day in the sun at the best Chicago beaches or waterfront restaurants along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, or catch the last night of fireworks at Navy Pier on Saturday evening. Plus, don't miss summer festivals (like the dance music-centric lineups at North Coast and ARC Music Festival) as well as outdoor movies in Chicago parks. Prefer to skip town for the holiday? We've got some sweet weekend getaways from Chicago in mind, too. And don't forget to honor the history of the holiday with events that chronicle the American labor movement.
When is Labor Day?
This year, Labor Day falls on Monday, September 2, 2024.
What is Labor Day?
Labor Day is a national holiday created to celebrate the contributions of the American worker. It falls on the first Monday of September, resulting in a coveted three-day weekend. Chicago is fairly busy over Labor Day weekend as locals head out to beaches, rooftop bars and other outdoor spots to enjoy the late summer weather.
